Montana Senate Bill SB92

Montana 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/15/22
• Refer: 12/28/22

Caption

Eliminate jail penalties for driving while suspended/revoked

Impact

The bill's impact on state laws would be significant, considering that the existing penalties include both fines and jail time, especially for repeat offenders. By shifting the focus away from incarceration, SB92 aims to reduce the burden on the jail system and prioritize financial penalties and community service. This approach may also align with broader criminal justice reform efforts that advocate for the reduction of incarceration rates and support for alternative sentencing methods.

Summary

Senate Bill 92 aims to reform the penalties associated with driving while one’s license is suspended or revoked in Montana. The bill seeks to eliminate jail time as a penalty for individuals convicted of this offense. Instead, SB92 proposes to revise the existing law to impose fines and potentially additional community service instead of incarceration. This legislative change reflects a growing understanding of the challenges faced by individuals who may drive without a valid license, particularly those who rely on driving for employment or daily activities.

Contention

Notably, this bill could encounter contention as it addresses an established aspect of traffic law that has traditionally involved punitive measures like jail time. Proponents of the bill, including advocates for criminal justice reform and reductions in incarceration, argue that eliminating jail time would provide a more equitable solution for individuals who may drive without a license due to circumstances beyond their control. However, opponents may express concerns that such changes could potentially undermine road safety and may not appropriately address the behavior of repeat offenders who continue to drive despite having their licenses revoked.